The Gill Front Zip Drysuit claims to offer unsurpassed protection with a lightweight design. Constructed from 5 Dot Ocean Fabric, the one piece waterproof unit incorporates a tried and tested Dynat zip, eliminating the need for a gusset.
As with any drysuit, there is definitely a knack to putting the Gill Front Zip Drysuit on. After a few tries I had it mastered: feet in first, then right arm followed by my head and left arm. When your bottom half is contained within the suit adjustable braces allow you to obtain the best fit. Once completely in you can zip yourself up, which is a little stiff but very simple, then buckle your belt and you are ready.
The suit fitted well and wasn't at all constricting. The only slightly curious aspect of the fit was some excess fabric that was positioned above my left shoulder. Though it didn't cause any problems, it was rather peculiar to look at.
Once in the water the Front Zip Drysuit performed well. Wearing only a long-sleeve thermal top and trouser underneath, I was kept warm and dry for the duration of my sailing thanks to the Glideskin reinforced collar and cuffs. Even when completely submerged, only a very small amount of water trickled down my neck as the seal broke when I climbed back into the boat.
The wicking of the suit wasn't brilliant. Even though I was sailing in Febuary, all the tacking and jibing left me surprisingly warm. However when I opened the suit, there was a slight condensation build up on the fabric. With air temperature reaching a high of approximately 10°C I maintained a comfortable body temperature, but can imagine that in warmer weather the Gill Drysuit would leave you boiling.
Due to the thinness of the fabric around the feet area, one is required to wear alternative footwear on top of the suit. As there are no thermal qualities in this area, you can easily slide a covered foot into a normal sized shoe.
Only available in the Carbon/Black/Red colour combination (as pictured), the Gill Front Zip Drysuit comes in sizes XS-XXL (The Medium size is also available in MB, an additional size for medium height with extra width). The recommend retail price for the suit is £325 inc. VAT.
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The Gill Front Zip Drysuit kept me warm and dry throughout a day's sailing. There were no compromises in movement or fitting. Though perhaps a little on the expensive side, it is of good quality and made to last. I have also found it on the internet retailing for as little as £265 - what a bargain!
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For more inforamtion, visit www.gillmarine.com.
